Pulmonology

Our research in pediatric pulmonology includes the development of gene-based vaccines against pulmonary infectious organisms. In particular, our team is exploring the use of what is known as “capsid-modified adenovirus vectors” to boost immune responses by genetic vaccines against a common bacterium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and respiratory syncytial virus, a highly contagious virus which can caused infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. The lab team, led by Dr. Stefan Worgall is also investigating the interaction of alveolar macrophages (white blood cells found in the lungs) with the P. aeruginosa bacteria to better understand the role of white blood cells in the development of cystic fibrosis.